Postpartum Physical Therapy in Franklin County, PA
The Fourth Trimester
The postpartum period—often called the "fourth trimester"—brings significant physical and emotional changes as your body recovers from pregnancy and childbirth. While society often focuses on the baby during this time, your recovery deserves equal attention. The pelvic floor muscles, abdominal wall, and surrounding structures undergo tremendous changes during pregnancy and childbirth that can lead to various symptoms and functional challenges.
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Dr. Christine specializes in supporting women through this critical recovery phase with evidence-based, compassionate care that addresses the whole person—recognizing that postpartum healing involves not just physical recovery but emotional adjustment as well.
Common Postpartum Symptoms
Pelvic Pain and Discomfort
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Urinary incontinence (leaking with coughing, sneezing, or movement)
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Pelvic organ prolapse (feelings of heaviness, bulging, or pressure)
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Perineal pain or discomfort from tearing or episiotomy
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Pelvic floor muscle weakness or excessive tension
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Scar tissue discomfort from cesarean delivery or perineal tears
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Core and Abdominal Issues
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Diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles)
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Core weakness and instability
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Difficulty engaging abdominal muscles properly
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Cesarean section scar pain or restrictions
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Musculoskeletal Pain
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Lower back pain
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Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
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Hip or tailbone pain
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Neck and upper back pain from feeding and carrying your baby
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Wrist and hand pain (De Quervain's tenosynovitis)
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Other Common Concerns
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Pain during intimacy (dyspareunia)
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Persistent constipation or bowel issues
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Difficulty returning to exercise safely
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Body mechanics challenges with baby care activities
A Holistic Approach to Postpartum Pelvic Floor Therapy
Dr. Christine believes strongly in treating the whole person, not just isolated symptoms. The postpartum period affects every aspect of a woman's body and life, which is why our approach is comprehensive and individualized.
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Initial Assessment
Your first session includes a thorough evaluation to understand your specific challenges, birth experience, health history, and goals. This typically involves:
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Detailed discussion of your symptoms, concerns, and birth story
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Assessment of posture, movement patterns, and functional abilities
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Evaluation of pelvic floor muscle function (with your consent and comfort)
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Assessment of abdominal muscle separation and function
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Examination of any surgical or birth-related scars
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Identification of contributing factors to your symptoms
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Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on your assessment, we develop a customized treatment plan that may include:
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Therapeutic Exercises: Gentle, progressive exercises to restore function to the pelvic floor and core
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Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to address muscle tension, scar restrictions, joint mobility, and pain
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Functional Training: Guidance on optimal body mechanics for baby care activities (lifting, carrying, feeding)
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Breathing Techniques: Coordination of breath with movement to support proper core function
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Return to Exercise Guidance: Personalized plans for safely resuming physical activity and exercise
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Education: Evidence-based information about postpartum recovery and self-care strategies
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Realistic Timeline and Progressive Care
Our postpartum rehabilitation program recognizes that recovery isn't linear and takes time. We progress your treatment based on your body's healing, typically moving through the phases outlined below. Recognize this can look different given a number of factors including your pre-pregnancy fitness level, modical history, birth experience, and more.
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Early Postpartum (0-8 weeks): Focus on foundational healing, gentle reconnection with core and pelvic floor muscles, pain management, and essential daily functions
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Rebuilding (2-6 months): Progressive strengthening, functional movement patterns, and beginning to address more complex activities
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Return to Activity (6+ months): Advanced strengthening, movement coordination, and safe return to higher-level activities and exercise
Frequently Asked Questions
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When should I start postpartum physical therapy?
Many women benefit from beginning therapy around 4-6 weeks postpartum, after clearance from their obstetrician or midwife. However, for certain concerns like cesarean recovery or significant pain, earlier intervention with modified treatment may be appropriate. It's never too late to start—women months or even years after childbirth can still benefit significantly from pelvic floor physical therapy.
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Is it normal to still have pain or leaking several months after giving birth?
While some discomfort and changes in the early postpartum period are common, persistent pain, leaking, or pelvic pressure beyond 6-8 weeks postpartum deserves attention. These symptoms are considered common but not normal, and they can be effectively treated with proper care.
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Can physical therapy help with diastasis recti (abdominal separation)?
Yes! Diastasis recti responds well to specialized physical therapy that focuses on proper core engagement, progressive strengthening, and addressing contributing factors like breathing patterns and posture.
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How is pelvic floor physical therapy different from just doing "kegels"?
Postpartum rehabilitation is much more comprehensive than kegel exercises alone. In fact, kegels may not be appropriate for all postpartum women, particularly those with pelvic floor tension. We provide individualized assessment and treatment that addresses the entire body and your specific symptoms rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
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Will I need an internal examination?
Internal examinations can be very helpful in assessing pelvic floor function, but they are never mandatory. We prioritize your comfort and will discuss all examination options thoroughly before proceeding.
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I had my baby years ago but am still having symptoms. Is it too late for therapy?
It's never too late to address pelvic floor issues. Many women begin pelvic therapy months or years after childbirth and still achieve significant improvements. The pelvic floor responds well to proper treatment regardless of when symptoms began.
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Your Partner in Postpartum Recovery
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Dr. Christine is committed to supporting you through this important transition and recovery period. As a specialized pelvic floor physical therapist, she combines clinical expertise with compassionate care to address your unique needs during the postpartum journey.
The postpartum period deserves specialized attention and care. If you're experiencing discomfort, leaking, pain with daily activities, or simply want to ensure optimal recovery after childbirth, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming function, comfort, and confidence in your body.